Category Archives: Songwriting Exercises & Tools

Why is it that some songs will only stay on the charts for a short period of time, while others are able to stand the test of time? Analyzing the qualities of timeless songs is a great tool to enhance your songwriting. Let’s explore three commonalities that you can practice applying to your own writing.

When we write a song, we begin with some type of inspiration or idea. These ideas typically fall into four big categories: melody, harmony, rhythm, and lyrics. Let’s explore these four approaches to writing a song so you can start to have control over them in your own writing.

We all learn about the ii-V-Is and the turnarounds, but what are your chords actually doing with your audience? If you want to be able to create any emotion you want, songwriting coach Friedemann Findeisen shows you how in this guest article.

When a band’s original songs are homogenous, that’s on the songwriter. There’s a good chance the band’s main writer always writes on an instrument, and his or her songs are limited by that. Falling into ruts as a player will keep your songwriting stuck in those same ruts. Fortunately, there are simple practices you can establish to keep your ideas fresh and avoid becoming That Band.

So many songs deal with the same themes – love, life, loss – but great songwriters are able to make that story fresh. Why is it that when two songs promote the same idea, some sound powerful while others sound tired? Here are five ideas you can try right now with your lyric writing to ensure that you’re telling your own unique story in a strong, vivid way.

It’s easy to get in the habit of writing songs in your perfect key, in the same style, and always on your same instrument. The hard part is figuring out why you’re not happy with the finished product. Sometimes small details can dramatically change the bigger picture. Try these tips to instantly spice up your songwriting!

For some, hearing the words “step out of your comfort zone” will cause immediate aversion. For others, it may stir up a sense of excitement. Whether the concept holds immediate interest for you or not, pushing yourself out of your neutral territory is key for personal growth, which is especially true as it applies to creativity! Trying new things with your songwriting is a great way to create inspiration. Here are a few ideas you can experiment with.

Writing a song that you think is perfect and that you’re completely happy with can sometimes feel like a one-in-a-million chance. It feels disheartening to put your best effort in over and over again, only to come out with something you don’t feel proud of. But refrain from labeling your work as garbage! There may be something worth salvaging. Try some of these tips to get your mind out of the gutter – and get your songwriting practice back on track.

The most surefire way to keep making progress with your songwriting craft is to practice, practice, practice. The great part is that it doesn’t take much – even devoting just 10 minutes a day to songwriting will help you improve. Not sure what exactly to spend those 10 minutes on? Try experimenting with these ideas, and watch yourself become a more creative songwriter in no time!

The time you spend commuting every day adds up quickly, so why not use that time to work on some songs? Whether you drive, bike, walk, or take public transit, we have some suggestions for how to write new music and finish up old songs while you make your way to your destination.